INTEGRATED DESIGN PROCESS
This diagram illustrates the design process we use from initial meetings through construction. It shows how we gather information, test assumptions, develop a concept, refine and detail the design and prepare construction documents.
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Discovery
We start with the Discovery Phase, where we review every element of the project including site, codes, utilities, programming, building materials and budget. This phase includes a process known as visioning, which gives us a view into the future, a view at what the success of the project might be. Call it brainstorming, dreaming or wishful thinking, but visioning is the team’s chance to articulate the mission and “see” its successful outcome.[/column]
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CONCEPTUAL
DESIGN
The Discovery Phase leads to Conceptual Design. This phase gives us our first, sketch glimpse at what the project might look like; not a lot of detail and not even totally thought out, but a design in its infancy. It contains an early response to our questions and goals.
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SCHEMATIC
DESIGN
When we get the team’s buy-in to the design concept we begin Schematic Design. Now we are adding the most basic level details to the concept, details that help us test our assumptions and get an early reading on the accuracy of the program. We’re getting a much clearer look at the building and site. The design is starting to take shape. This phase usually involves a substantial amount of review and revision, but at this early stage we welcome it.
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DESIGN
DEVELOPMENT
Design Development is the point in the process where we get into the nitty-gritty. Building materials and architectural details are clearly identified and the site begins to take shape. We revisit the budget to see where we stand. When this phase is completed we have an accurate picture of the building both inside and out.

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CONSTRUCTION
DOCUMENTS
This phase is where we create the project documents that are the language of construction. Drawings, specifications, contracts and a myriad of other items are developed by the design team to direct the work and provide the contractors with everything they need to build out the project.
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BIDDING &
CONSTRUCTION
All of the planning and design work completed by the team finally turns into a building. Construction Administration services are provided by the design team continually through construction.

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This is the Merge process.
It’s uniquely collaborative and always design-focused.
Interested? We’d love to hear from you.
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